DSC_9428 Ornamental ponds may contain ornnamental fish such as goldfish or species introduced for ‘coarse fishing’ (defined by the quarry not being a ‘game’ or salmonid fish). Species such as carp, tench and perch are usually caught for the enjoyment of fishing rather than for the table. Hope, Nelson *
11004-39001 Western Mosquito fish (Gambusia affinis) male (foreground), and female. Gambusia were released in New Zealand in the 1930s to control mosquitoes, but as with a number of other countries they soon became pests competing with our native fish. Today they are classed as an ‘unwanted organism’ under the Biosecurity Act 1993, and it is unlawful to possess or release this fish. Their high density populations reduce galaxiids in shallow lakes and still-water habitats, and they may also affect mudfish. They also displace native bullies from shallow, marginal waters of lakes in summer months. Auckland *
11004-39014 Western Mosquito fish (Gambusia affinis) large female. Gambusia were released in New Zealand in the 1930s to control mosquitoes, but as with a number of other countries they soon became pests competing with our native fish. Today they are classed as an ‘unwanted organism’ under the Biosecurity Act 1993, and it is unlawful to possess or release this fish. Their high density populations reduce galaxiids in shallow lakes and still-water habitats, and they may also affect mudfish. They also displace native bullies from shallow, marginal waters of lakes in summer months. Auckland *